Does Valium work for anxiety effectivly?

I'm going to the dentist tomorrow, & i'm terrified of needles. The dentist gave me 1 valium (8 mg) to take before the operation due to the fact I have servere anxiety when it comes to the dentist. Will it take away all anxiety?

All medicines in this category can have these effects to some degree, depending on the specific benzodiazepine that is being taken. They work in the brain by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a brain chemical that is naturally calming. GABA can slow down or stop certain nerve signals in the brain. This is why Valium and other benzodiazepines are known as mild tranquilizers, sedatives, or central nervous system depressants (CNS depressants).

I too am dentist phobic, and am Rx one 10 mg Valium before a procedure. I take it one hour before going to the dentist, I am also given the "gas" , and can generally get through the exam without jumping around or going into panic mode. They usually then give you straight oxygen which clears your head, however, it might still be best if someone can drive you home. Valium has an extremely long half life, so if you are not used to it you may find yourself very relaxed the rest of the day. If you are able to stay home from work, do so. If the dentist Rx anything for pain, you might want to just try ibuprofen, before opening that can of worms. It'll be okay, I think your very brave and smart to check for the medicine info as well as going to the dentist (I actually fainted once) right in the waiting room, but I did that at the vets with my dog too! Good luck and God bless... The Damage Done